Finding the perfect venue isn’t easy. There are so many different types of venues, it is hard to know where to start looking. Do you want an elegant ballroom, magnificent waterfront, something quiet and simple, how do you decide? Here are a few tips to finding your dream venue.

What type of venue aligns with your vision

Know your guest list

Remember your budget

Find out what is included

Weather conditions and the time of year

Stay true to yourself

When Alison & Mike first called Top Shelf, they were struggling to find a venue that could accommodate all their needs. They wanted a venue close to the ceremony site, somewhere that would accommodate 200 people with an outside area for cocktails and a large reception space with a large dance floor. Most of all, they needed to stay within their budget.

They quickly found out that they never realized how much room rental costs could be and did not consider that in their budget. They also didn’t consider how much work it would be if they were hiring a caterer and contracting for all the rentals on their own. That is when they decided to hire Top Shelf to help them make one of the biggest decisions concerning their wedding. After considering the points above, we settled on a local venue that was a little expensive on the room rental, but had most of the rentals available at the venue. We hired a caterer from their recommended list and the caterer is taking care of the rentals. With so many moving parts, a wedding planner is worth her weight in gold! Being there for the couple on the wedding day to help with transportation, venue set up, oversee the caterer and make last minute decisions (especially with an outside component) makes planning as stress free as possible.

Want more ideas about how to find the perfect venue for your wedding, contact Top Shelf Event Planners!